RUSTON – Louisiana Tech University's mascot, Tech XXI, is retiring from active service, according to the university.

The university announced on Tuesday that the live English bulldog mascot will retire from sideline duties and public appearances.

Tech's retirement comes after a recommendation by veterinarians and guidance from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Tech's retirement, according to university officials, follows Louisiana Tech's length-of-service protocol for the live mascot, developed before Tech's XXI's selection in 2013.

Tech will be transferred to a veterinary family where he will live out his retirement as a family pet, university officials say. The decision and process for replacing Tech XXI will be determined by Louisiana Tech officials. There is currently no time frame on finding a replacement.

Tech XXI retirement was announced the same day that LSU's live mascot, Mike VI, passed away following his battle with cancer.